Hi Sue

Was the boat in the winding hole chained to the pilings? There was a bot there nearly two years ago which seemed a permanent fixture. We had enough trouble turning our 60ft Per Angusta, so the extra footage on No Problem must have made it even harder for you and Vic.

Regards
Gillian | Homepage | April 3, 2008, 12:20 am | #

I'm proud to say that we've always managed to get Debdale in that lock WITHOUT using the bow thruster!!!
adam | Homepage | April 3, 2008, 4:40 pm | #

Gillian, How nice to hear from you, I have been wondering if you were OK ...
Anyway, yes it is a permanent fixture. When I decided to reverse in to turn, I still had problems and had to get off NP and walk through the garden to pull the stern back far enough for Vic to pull the bow round..

Very dangerous indeed then trying to get back aboard over broken alcove and the like. A letter has gone to BW for an explanation..
Sue | April 3, 2008, 10:59 pm | #

Adam, Hey a lot of people pride themselves with not using a bow thruster.. so well done you. I was in the way a bit struggling myself on the far side.. it was easier for him to use it than to wait for me to sort myself out..

Wanna give me Debdales bow thruster then.. I surely would use it!!!
Sue | April 3, 2008, 11:05 pm | #

I'd only be able to give you a share of Debdale's bow thrusters, which might not do you much good!

Some of the latest OwnerShips boats which are just coming on line are going to have four jet thrusters -- two at the front and two at the back. Presumably this will mean they'll be able to move sideways, which should be worth seeing!
Adam | Homepage | April 4, 2008, 1:59 pm | #

Hi Sue

It's me on Debdale, and using the controversial bow thruster. Yes I can get in at Marston Doles without it, I did over 35 years ago with a speed wheel and a manual box on a big Willow Wren. However it was a very windy day, and sometimes the sensible thing to do is to give the other boat the room and the water as quickly as possible, and they are good for this! Got some nice photos of you will send...
Charlie | April 4, 2008, 5:40 pm | #

Hi Sue

I'm fine thanks - actually out on the boat at the moment trying out some new technology. I've got a 'dongle' to give us mobile broadband. Seems to be working OK. I can pick up e-mails and follow your blog!

Are you likely to be anywhere between Napton Turn and Braunston on Sunday/Monday? If so, we could finally get to meet.

Hope to see you.

Gillian
Gillian | Homepage | April 4, 2008, 7:54 pm | #

Adam, Gosh they will be able to spin in the water!.. I think that is a bot OTT really, tis the front ones that are useful. Ha coming away from a mooring would be easy though, just move to the centre of the canal before applying the throttle forward!!
Sue | April 4, 2008, 11:03 pm | #

Charlie, Well I don't consider bow thrusters as controversial, and you used it to very good effect and expertise giving me the room I needed to get No Problem round outside as you said.

Well it was nice to meet you and the family Charlie, I hope you had a good trip
Sue | April 4, 2008, 11:06 pm | #

Gillian, Yes I have one of those dongles now, they are very good and very fast when you are in a good area for reception.

Yes we will be between Napton and Braunston on Monday late afternoon.. any good?
Sue | April 4, 2008, 11:11 pm | #

Hi Sue

Monday afternoon should see us moored between bridges 102 and 103 heading towards Napton does this mean we might get to meet up at last?

Gillian
Gillian | Homepage | April 6, 2008, 4:14 pm | #

Gillian, We will be at the same place after we drop off the family at Wigrams, that will be probably between 4pm and 6pm sometime. Hope we don't miss you if you are returning to base tomorrow evening
Sue | April 6, 2008, 8:47 pm | #